Snappers and groupers are top predators on Indonesia's rich coral reefs and therefore ecologically vital for the functioning of healthy ecosystems. They are also a high value fishery and targeted by small-scale fishermen. Around West Nusa Tenggara, they represent some of the best income-generation opportunities for local fishers. Most populations are extremely overfished and lack any form of management. WCS is working with local communities, the local government and the private sector to document the fishery and develop management plans to ensure that populations stabilize on the reefs and that local fishers can continue to gain income from these species.

WCS collects fishery data with local enumerators and uses the data to develop management plan guidelines for local communities and local government. Local community fishers are supported in establishing local cooperatives, training on post-harvest fish handling, and MPA management. Local fisheries officials are trained in harvest control measures and assisted with data collection and analysis.

WCS also engages with the private sector to increase the value of the fishery and bring supply chain benefits back to local fishers. Options for certification or access to markets that value sustainable management are being explored.